What to Do to Your House Before Leaving on Vacation
Planning a vacation is an exciting time, but it’s equally important to ensure that your house is secure and well-prepared before you leave. Taking the necessary precautions can give you peace of mind while you’re enjoying your trip. Here are some essential steps to consider before heading off on your well-deserved break.
1. Secure Your Home
First and foremost, make sure your home is secure. Change the locks if you haven’t done so recently, and consider installing a home security system. If you have a smart home system, you can also use it to monitor your home remotely while you’re away.
2. Inform Neighbors
Let your neighbors know that you’ll be on vacation. They can keep an eye on your house and collect any mail or packages that might arrive while you’re away. This can also help deter potential burglars who might see a house that appears unoccupied.
3. Stop Mail and Newspapers
To avoid your home looking unoccupied, have your mail and newspapers stopped or collected by a friend or neighbor. You can also set up a hold on your mail through the USPS or use a mail holding service.
4. Set Your Thermostat
Adjust your thermostat to a moderate temperature to save on energy costs and make your home more comfortable for when you return. If you have a smart thermostat, you can even control it remotely to ensure your home is at the perfect temperature when you arrive.
5. Turn Off Appliances
Unplug any unnecessary appliances to save energy and prevent potential hazards. This includes your computer, phone charger, and other electronics that might be left on for an extended period.
6. Water the Garden
If you have a garden or outdoor plants, make sure they are well-watered before you leave. You can ask a friend or neighbor to water them while you’re away, or consider using an automatic irrigation system.
7. Unplug the Ice Maker
If you have an ice maker in your refrigerator, it’s a good idea to unplug it before leaving. This will prevent any potential water damage from a frozen line or power outage.
8. Arrange for Pet Care
If you have pets, make sure they are well-cared for while you’re away. You can ask a friend or neighbor to check on them, or consider hiring a pet sitter or boarding them at a reputable facility.
9. Clean the House
A clean house can help prevent any issues while you’re away. Wipe down counters, vacuum carpets, and take out the trash. This will also make your home more inviting when you return.
10. Document Your Home
Take photos or videos of your home’s interior and exterior before you leave. This can be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim or if there are any issues while you’re away.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your home is safe and secure while you’re enjoying your vacation. Remember, a well-prepared home is a happy home, and you’ll be able to relax and have a worry-free trip.
